The Department of Students’ Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir (KU), in collaboration with the Range Police Headquarters, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) organized a speech competition on the theme 'Breaking the Chains of Addiction: Empowering Youth and Communities for a Nasha Mukt Bharat' at the varsity.

The event witnessed participation from 30 students representing various colleges and university teaching departments. The competition aimed to create awareness about the devastating impact of substance abuse and underscore the role of youth in promoting a drug-free society.

Vice Chancellor KU, Prof. Nilofer Khan, graced the prize distribution ceremony as the chief guest. Addressing the gathering, she reiterated the varsity's dedication to promoting awareness and guiding students towards a healthier and purposeful life.

"The strength of a society lies in the hands of its young generation. A Nasha Mukt Bharat is not just a great vision but a necessity as well and it is the responsibility of every individual, especially the youth, to work collectively towards this goal," she said.

DIG, Central Kashmir Range, Rajiv Omprakash Pandey, emphasized the critical role of law enforcement agencies in curbing drug abuse and encouraged youth to take a stand against this menace.

"Substance abuse is not just a personal struggle but a societal crisis. We must work together to safeguard the future of our younger generations," he said.

Earlier, SSP Srinagar, Mr. Imtiyaz Hussain, commended the efforts of the University and the J&K Police in organizing such meaningful initiatives.

Dean Students Welfare KU, Prof. Pervez Ahmed, in his welcome address highlighted the importance of youth-led initiatives in eradicating drug abuse.

Mr. Liyaqat Ali, Staff Officer to DIG (CKR), and Mr. Hilal Khaliq Bhat, SP Hazratbal, were also present on the occasion, who reiterated the importance of community awareness in tackling substance abuse.

The event was coordinated by Cultural Officer DSW KU, Dr. Shahid Ali Khan, who also conducted the proceedings and proposed the vote of thanks.

The winners of the competition include- Nuha Haris from SSM College of Engineering (first position); Farhan from the Department of Computer Science KU (second position); Baraha Malik from the Law Department KU (third position), Arbeena from IITM, Hyderpora (fourth position), and Rawhaan Rafeeq from GDC Baramulla (fifth position).